Scientist II

GENERAL SUMMARY

This Scientist II role is in the Biomarkers & Immunology department and supports biomarker measurements, and clinical pharmacology deliverables by developing novel bioanalytical methods and providing analysis and interpretation of key bioanalytical datasets. Working closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., Early-Stage Product Development, Project Management, Clinical Operations, and Clinical Development), these deliverables inform key program decisions.

The Scientist II position in Biomarkers & Immunology department will be responsible for execution of gene expression assays, molecular biology, ligand binding assays, cell culture activities, histology workflows and sample processing.  This Scientist II role may also contribute to management of assays performed externally at CROs.

The Scientist II will be expected to work in a collaborative and flexible manner supporting other assays/workflows including biobank, safety and lab maintenance activities. In addition to hands on technical expertise this position will be required to summarize experimental data in presentations and datasets, maintain an up-to-date laboratory notebook and keep up with literature and scientific knowledge in the areas of gene therapy and bioanalytics. 

This position reports to the Sr. Director, Biomarkers & Immunology, and supports 4DMT’s mission and portfolio of targeted genetic medicines.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute Immunogenicity, PK/PD, and biomarker assays for preclinical and clinical use across multiple therapeutic areas (e.g., ophthalmology, pulmonology, CNS).
• Molecular biology experimental execution (ie nucleic acid/ddPCR/plasmid and vector construction/molecular cloning)
• Ligand binding/protein assay experimental execution (ie MSD/ELISA)
• Cell culture activities and sample preparation to support diverse experimental workflows
• Review and interpret bioanalytical datasets for quality, trends, and consistency; summarize findings for study teams and contribute to data summaries.
• Histology sample preparation and IHC/ISH experimental execution
• Effective data summary and presentation to internal teams

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Education: 

• Degree in Immunology, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry or related field 
• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline with 5+ years of industry experience; OR
• Master's degree with 7-8+ years of industry or related experience; OR
• Bachelor's degree with 9-11+ years of industry or related experience

Experience: 

• AAV Vector experience
• Cell culture, sample preparation
• Experience with PCR, qPCR, and droplet digital PCR; RNA-seq; and tissue culture of primary cells and established cell lines.
• Bioanalytical and/or biomarker assay development experience
• Working knowledge of clinical pharmacology concepts (PK/PD, exposure metrics, dose selection, exposure–response) and experience translating study objectives into bioanalytical strategy (e.g., sampling strategy, assay performance characteristics), data generation plans, and interpretation for biologics and/or gene therapies
• Molecular biology: qPCR, ddPCR, plasmid and vector construction, molecular cloning, and other nucleic acid manipulations
• Ligand binding assays, cell-based assays
• Familiarity with ligand binding assays and LC-MS
• Experience in testing large sample sets in an organized and efficient manner
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and requests
• Excellent communication skills with internal 4D colleagues and external audiences
• Excellent data summary/presentation skills

Travel: <5%

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Physical Requirements - Lifting up to 20 lbs, bending, lifting, twisting, ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment such as lab coat, goggles/glasses, and nitrile gloves 
• Working Conditions - The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions (as in typical office or administrative work).

Base salary compensation range: $140,000 - $155,000

Please note, the base salary compensation range and actual salary offered to the final candidate depends on various factors: candidate’s geographical location, relevant work experience, skills, and years of experience.